SOFTWARE DEVELOPER OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATE Level 5

A significant body of global research indicates a substantial increase in the demand for skilled software developers. For instance, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 22% rise in demand for software developers by 2029, contrasting sharply with the average annual growth rate of 4% for all professions. In South Africa, the 2020 list of high-demand occupations published by the Department of Higher Education and Training in 2021 highlights the critical need for software developers, as identified by various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the industry at large. This anticipated job expansion bodes well for aspiring software developers, who can look forward to a secure, diverse, and lucrative career. By addressing this swiftly growing skills gap, the supply of software developers will contribute positively to economic development.

Technology: QCTO
Duration: 2200 Notional hours (18 - 24 Months)
NQF Level: 5

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Software Developer.

A Software Developer analyses a set of requirements, translates these into a working software solution using a programming language. They test, implement and maintain software applications to meet client specifications as well as functional and technical requirements.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Interrogate the specification and problem and interpret it into code and articulate in writing.
Build a logical flow using the framework and methodologies at their disposal to propose possible solutions to business challenges.

Programme effectively using a suitable programming language to develop and test new solutions and update existing solutions.

Rationale:
Realising the importance and future impact of the 4IR on the economy of South Africa and its competitiveness, the Minister of Communications gazetted the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (PC4IR) (Government Gazette No. 42388, 9 April 2019). By March 2020 this Commission delivered a report with wide ranging recommendations for Human Capital Development that will drive the 4IR forward. It clearly indicated the speed at which companies will have to invest in big data analysis, web-enabled market investment and the use of cloud computing and machine learning.

Software development is central to these initiatives. Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or another device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or that control networks. The software developer is the important cog in designing advanced computerised technologies. South Africa has a scarcity of software developers and there is a clear need for a qualification focusing specifically on the training and education of software developers.

There are currently similar qualifications registered on the NQF, however, the OC: Software Developer includes content related to 4IR specific competencies.

There is an abundance of international research that points to the phenomenal growth in the need for qualified software developers. For example, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS), demand for software developers is projected to grow by 22% by 2029. To put that figure in perspective, the average annual projected growth rate across all occupations is about 4%. In South Africa, according to the 2020 list of occupations in high demand: Technical Report (Department of Higher Education and Training) published in 2021 the role of the Software Developer and its synonyms have been identified as pivotal by several Sector Education and Training Bodies (SETAs) as well as being in critical need by industry and academia alike. With so much job growth on the horizon, prospective software developers stand to see a bright future ahead of them. Those with proper training and education not only have great job security and a range of options but a high paying, rewarding career path. Responding to the rapid skills demand by supplying software developers will thus have a positive impact on the economy.

It is also important to note that there are great opportunities to become self-employed and the entrepreneurial orientated software developers will form new companies (with the employment creation associated to it). In a 2019 OFFERZEN report on a survey of software developers, 39.5% indicated that within 5 years they want to establish their own companies. This growth in new companies in an environment where digitisation is becoming more and more important, will have a positive impact on society, not only in terms of connectivity, ICT savvy, communications, and the like, but also, as a new industry, the creation of jobs.

It should be noted that the Information Technology and Computing industry is highly competitive, and each vendor has its own certification exam. Typically, prospective candidates for the exams will enrol for a vendor specific short course prior to the exam. These certifications are globally recognised within the ICT industry. Within this context it is important to note that this qualification was developed vendor agnostic, thereby preparing the learner for and allowing the learner to enter any of the vendor specific certifications. This is a huge step forward toward inclusivity within the ICT industry of South Africa.

This qualification covers the full value chain of a software developer from interrogating and understanding problem statements (from end users) to building logic flows to solve identified problems, execute the necessary programming in an appropriate programming language and finally soft skills issues to function effectively, efficiently, and ethically in the workplace. It is an important qualification in the "suite" of qualifications in the ICT sector.

Typical learners include school leavers, graduates from TVET colleges and those currently in employment without formal recognition of competencies or who want to make a career change.

No professional registration or licencing is expected for Software Developers to seek employment in the sector.

Software developers can find employment as applications developers, ICT programmers, front-end developers, back-end developers, or full-stack developers.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment
Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result.

RPL for Access to the Qualification

Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification.
Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL.

RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment
Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
NQF Level 4 qualification.

RECOGNITION PREVIOUS LEARNING?

Yes

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:

Knowledge Modules

Computers and Computing Systems, Level 4, 12 Credits.
Desktop and Professional Software to Communicate and Visualise Information, Level 4, 8Credits.
Automated Web Scraping as a Data Source, Level 5, 8 Credits.
Logical Thinking and Basic Calculations, Level 4, 2 Credits.
Computing Theory, Level 4, 2 Credits.
Software Development with HTML5, Opensource Frameworks and Libraries, Level 5, 16 Credits.
UML as Standard Modelling Language for Software and Systems Development, Level 5, 4 Credits.
Obtaining, Querying, Manipulating and Presenting Data with and without MVC, Level 5, 6 Credits.
Software Development Life Cycle, Programming Languages, Algorithms and Security, Level 5, 3 Credits.
Introduction to Governance, Legislation and Ethics, Level 4, 2 Credits.
4IR and Future Skills, Level 4, 2 Credits.

Design Thinking Principles for Innovation, Level 4, 1 Credit.
Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 66

Practical Skill Modules

Use Software to Communicate and Visualise Information, Level 4, 3 Credits.
Use and Manage Spreadsheets and Workbooks, Level 4, 3 Credits.
Use Desktop Applications to Analyse, Visualise and Report on Data, Level 5, 3 Credits.
Use a Visual Analytics Platform and Visualisation Tools to Analyse, Visualise and report on Data, Level 5, 3 Credits.
Query and Massage Data, Level 5, 3 Credits.
Apply Logical Thinking and Maths , Level 4, 3 Credits.
Apply Code to use a Software Toolkit/Platform in the Field of Study or Employment, Level 5, 3 Credits.
Develop Software using HTML5, Opensource Frameworks and Libraries, Level 5, 16 Credits.
Design and Build Web Applications, Desktop Graphical User Interfaces or Mobile Apps, Level 5, 8 Credits.
Use a Cloud Automation Platform to Create Solutions, Level 4, 8 Credits.
Develop Software using Python, Level 5, 12 Credits.
Apply the Development Cycle when Developing Software, Level 5, 16 Credits.
Participate in a Design Thinking for Innovation Workshop, Level 4, 4 Credits.

Function Ethically and Effectively in a Team, Level 4, 4 Credits.
Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 89

Work Experience Modules

Technical Requirement Analysis and Refinement, Level 5, 15 Credits.
Modelling Processes, Level 5, 15 Credits.
Programming for Software Solution Development, Level 5, 25 Credits.
Capstone project, Level 5, 10 Credits.
Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 65

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

Interrogate the specification and problem and interpret it into code and articulate in writing.
Build a logical flow using industry standard frameworks and methodologies to propose possible solutions to business challenges to meet both functional and technical requirements.
Programme effectively using a suitable programming language to develop new solutions and update existing solutions.
Test and maintain software and recommend improvements to ensure strong functionality and optimisation to meet both functional and technical requirements.
Function effectively, efficiently, and ethically in the workplace to achieve company and team goals and targets.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Support the technical design process by participating in the analysis of technical application requirements.
Identify areas for modification in existing programs.
Gather information from consumers about program functionality.
Analyse User requirements and convert requirements to design documents.

Develop technical specifications and plans based on the above analysis of the requirements and consumer feedback.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Implement technical specifications and plans based on the above analysis of the requirements and consumer feedback.
Apply analytical skills to model a solution that meets organisational requirements.
Develop technical documentation to guide future software development projects.

Design a wireframe of the proposed amendments, or new solution for sign off by client under supervision.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Execute conversion plans, document possible improvements, and identify disruptions in the processes.
Produce efficient and elegant code based on requirements to implement new software programs.
Design Algorithms and appropriate UML (unified modelling language) diagrams to create new software programs and systems.
Independently install, customize, and integrate commercial software packages.
Timely compile comprehensive, accurate documentation and or reports as requested.
Develop and execute identified modifications in existing programs.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
Conduct root cause analysis of system issues, review new and/or existing code and perform unit testing in collaboration with experienced team members.
Execute troubleshooting and debugging to maintain and improve software performance.
Test new programs and applications applying suitable test procedures and document test procedures and results.
Observe, compile, and assess User feedback to identify opportunities to improve software performance.
Maintain and upgrade existing systems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
Compile code of conduct and ethical requirements within line with governance policies and procedures.
Maintain effective and professional communication with internal customers, management, and technical support colleagues.
Demonstrate collaboration with other developers, management, departments, and customers to identify end-user requirements and specifications.

Provide comprehensive support to internal customers to achieve resolution of outstanding problems or issues.

Integrated Assessment
Integrated Formative Assessment:
The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment together with work experience leads to entrance in the integrated external summative assessment.

Integrated summative assessment:
An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the exit level outcomes and associated assessment criteria.

The external integrated summative assessment will be conducted through a theoretical assessment and the evaluation of practical tasks at decentralised approved assessment sites in a simulated environment and conducted by an assessor(s) registered with the relevant AQP.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Occupational Certificate: Software Developer was compared with the training provided in the United States of America and Australia since they appear to be leaders in this aspect.

United States of America (USA)
The Software Engineering course is presented by the Flatiron School as a 100% online course with mentor support as well as with an on-campus option. The duration is specified as 800-1000 hours of learning which may be achieved as a full-time, a part-time or self-paced option. Flatiron applies a blended approach which includes labs, lectures, and close collaboration, showcasing progress through Portfolio Projects and being linked to an online community. The course focuses on the Ruby and JavaScript ecosystems and provide content to develop expertise in back-end and front-end programming. Soft skills are acquired through the course, even though it is not highlighted as a module.

Course outcomes are:

Develop a foundation in programming fundamentals.
Conquer the concepts of Object-Oriented Programming.
Work with APIs (Application Programming Interfaces).
Become proficient in database modelling and ORM (Object Relational Mapping).
Understand MVC (Model-View-Controller), a pattern used by frameworks like rails to build large-scale applications.
Execute application deployment.

Modules include:
Programming Fundamentals.
Web Frameworks.
JavaScript.
Front-end Frameworks.

Projects to build productive, scalable front-ends and back-ends.

Similarities:
Both qualifications include knowledge and practical (utilising software platforms) components, and the duration is a full year. The content of both qualifications is similar and similar learning outcomes are achieved. Both qualifications skill learners in front-end and back-end technologies and include a Capstone project as well as soft skills related to professionalism.

Differences:
The modules on soft skills of the Occupational Certificate: Software Developer are more comprehensive than those of the Software Engineering course and include aspects such as ethics, teamwork, and collaboration. The Occupational Certificate: Software Developer includes refresher and introductory modules, mathematics, and programming. The Occupational Certificate: Software Developer does not require previous programming skills in contrast to the Software Engineering course which requires previous programming skills. The Occupational Certificate: Software Developer carries no vendor specific certification and is vendor agnostic, while the Software Engineering course focusses on Ruby and JavaScript.

Australia:
The nationally recognised Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50120) is presented by the Upskilled Training Institution which specialises in Information Technology training. The duration is 24 months, and it is presented as an online course. Entry requirements are stipulated as completion of year 12, a qualification at Certificate IV level or higher, or 4 years of relevant experience in the IT industry.

The qualification entails 6 core units and 14 elective units. Core units are:

Originate and develop concepts.
Apply IP, ethics, and privacy policies in ICT environments.
Match ICT needs with the strategic direction of the organisation.
Manage client problems.
Promote workplace cyber security awareness and best practices.
Lead and facilitate a team.

Elective units are:
Debug and monitor applications.
Deploy applications to production environments.
Design application architecture.
Implement security for applications.
Build using rapid application development.
Manage projects using software management tools.
Prepare for application development using current methods.
Create mashups.
Maintain custom software.
Monitor and support data conversion to new ICT system
Review developed software.
Develop integration blueprint for ICT systems.
Install, test and evaluate pilot version of ICT systems.
Monitor system pilots.
Develop high-level object-oriented class specifications.
Perform ICT data conversions.
Implement object relational mapping framework for data persistence.

Develop advanced mobile multi-touch applications.

Similarities:
Both qualifications, Diploma of Information Technology and the Occupational Certificate: Software Developer, are at the same level, namely Level 5. Both qualifications are nationally recognised. Both qualifications entail a theoretical as well as a practical skills component.

Entry requirements are similar. Similar units/modules include:

Originate and develop concepts.
Apply IP, ethics and privacy policies in ICT environments.

Promote workplace cyber security awareness and best practices.

Elective units are:

Debug and monitor applications.
Deploy applications to production environments.
Design application architecture.
Implement security for applications.
Build using rapid application development.
Prepare for application development using current methods.
Maintain custom software.
Monitor and support data conversion to new ICT system.
Review developed software.
Develop integration blueprint for ICT systems.
Install, test and evaluate pilot version of ICT systems.
Develop high-level object-oriented class specifications.
Perform ICT data conversions.
Implement object relational mapping framework for data persistence.

Develop advanced mobile multi-touch applications.

Differences:
The duration of the qualifications differs. Upskilled offers a simulated working environment, while the OC: Software Developer requires real-time work experience. The OC: Software Developer does not include the following aspects:

Monitor system pilots.
Create mashups.
Manage projects using software management tools.
Match ICT needs with the strategic direction of the organisation.
Lead and facilitate a team.

Manage client problems.

Conclusion
This South African qualification compares favourably with the competencies covered in international programmes.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal and vertical articulation options.

Horizontal Articulation:

Occupational Certificate: Computer Technician; NQF Level 5.

Vertical Articulation:

Advanced Certificate in Information Technology Governance, NQF Level 6.

NOTES

Qualifying for External Assessment:
To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience.

The curriculum title and code are: Software Developer: 251201-005-00-00.

Encompassed Trade:
This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:

This is not a trade qualification

Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)

MICT SETA

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​SOFTWARE DEVELOPER OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATE Level 5

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATE Level 5